The Memphis Grizzlies are feeling the pressure to regain their footing in the NBA as they find themselves in a precarious position following a series of disappointing performances. After a three-game losing streak and a subpar 7-10 record since returning from the All-Star break, the Grizzlies are now firmly planted in the fifth seed of the tightly contested Western Conference standings.
On March 16, 2025, the Grizzlies were tied for the second seed alongside the Houston Rockets and Denver Nuggets, but just over a week later, they have slipped down to fifth place as teams around them capitalize on their struggles. The Grizzlies' recent lack of success on the court has not only affected their standings but also their confidence and statistical rankings. In the latest NBA Power Rankings released by John Schuhmann, the Grizzlies fell from the top 10 to the 13th position, marking a significant drop that reflects their recent inconsistencies.
Since February 25, 2025, the Grizzlies have been challenged by an exhausting schedule that has prohibited them from taking more than one day's rest between games. They finally received a much-needed break following their loss to the Los Angeles Clippers on March 22, granting them three days to regroup before facing the Utah Jazz on March 25.
With only 11 games remaining in the regular season and the NBA's eighth-ranked remaining strength of schedule, the Grizzlies must capitalize on their longest break since the All-Star break to turn things around. Their recent struggles have highlighted some alarming trends, including their defense moving out of the top 10 in the NBA, dropping to 12th in the Western Conference with a record of 7-10 since the All-Star break. Furthermore, they hold an alarming 0-9 record against teams above .500 since February 2, 2025, raising concerns ahead of upcoming matches against formidable opponents.
As they navigate the rest of the schedule, the Grizzlies face critical matchups, including contests against the Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warriors. The game against the Warriors, in particular, could significantly impact the playoff seeding for both teams as they vie for better positioning in the postseason.
The Grizzlies' situation has been compounded by injuries to key players. Star guard Ja Morant continues to deal with hamstring soreness, having missed the last four games with an uncertain timeline for his return. Also sidelined is reserve big man Brandon Clarke, who will not return this season. Such injuries have hampered the Grizzlies' performance and depth as they head into critical matchups.
Coach Taylor Jenkins is acutely aware of the pressures the team faces, and he has emphasized the need for a strong response as the playoffs rapidly approach. The focus now must be on regaining momentum and ensuring a positive end to the season, expected to be challenging. Grizzlies fans are undoubtedly hoping for their team to avoid the NBA’s play-in tournament and secure a direct playoff spot.
As of March 24, 2025, the Grizzlies are keeping their fingers crossed for a much-needed turnaround while hoping that key players return strong and healthy. In light of the growing tension within the team’s environment, the next few games are crucial in defining whether they can solidify their playoff spot or face a tougher path in the postseason.
